Affordable housing (for Newark residents only) now seeking applications

20 units at upscale Art of Newark on Irvine Turner Boulevard are set aside

Twenty affordable units at the Art of Newark, a new multifamily project in Newark — everything from studios to two-bedroom units — are available exclusively to Newark residents for the next 90 days, the city announced Tuesday.

The building, at 44 Irvine Turner Blvd., has a total of 155 units, 20 of them affordable. Of these, nine are studio apartments, seven are one-bedroom apartments and the remaining four are two-bedroom apartments.

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka.

Under the amendment to the Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance passed by the municipal council on Aug. 2, the city is now permitted to exclusively market new affordable units to Newark residents during a 90-day period.

Mayor Ras Baraka was thrilled to make the announcement.

This is a game-changer in the quest to make Newark a more affordable city,” he said. “The Art of Newark is a superbly appointed residential address.

“We are pleased that 20 of its apartments are affordable under the city’s Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance. But, what makes this day most exciting for all of us who are working to enable Newark residents to remain in our city, is that the Art of Newark is the first development that we are announcing that has, by law, a preference for Newark residents.

Council President LaMonica R. McIver.

Municipal Council President LaMonica R. McIver agreed.

“I’m super-thrilled and excited about the opening of 44 Irvine Turner Blvd., and its 20 affordable units that will give first dibs to Newark residents,” she said. “It’s a win for the city of Newark and specifically for the Central Ward, as we continue to push Newark forward with economic development and affordable housing.”

The Art of Newark offers a Techno-gym Integrated Fitness Center; on-site pet washing and outdoor dog run; secured package room; interactive intercom system; bicycle & stroller storage; attached garage parking for rent; a landscaped courtyard with barbecue stations; a game/media room; a lounge room; and a kids’ room. The building is located close to transit lines, parks, restaurants and cafés.

Deputy Mayor Allison Ladd.

Tay Investments developed the building.

Allison Ladd, deputy mayor and director of the city’s Department of Economic and Housing Development, said Newark is a trendsetter.

“Newark is proud that our original Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance has proven to be a national model for producing affordable housing,” she said. “This amendment giving Newark residents preference in acquiring affordable housing is an expansion of Mayor Baraka’s leadership in housing innovation.”

How to apply

In order to be considered for housing at the Art of Newark, applicants are required to complete a preliminary random selection application by 8 p.m. Jan. 30, 2024. Supporting documents and application tees are NOT required with preliminary applications. Click here for more info.

Random selection will take place approximately 14 days after the application deadline and prospective tenants will be notified of their placement on the waiting list five days after.

Applicants will go through income, household composition and asset verification process after they are selected.